DOUBLE BALLOON ENTEROSCOPY

DBE was originally developed in Japan in 2001 and is now performed by many gastroenterologists throughout the world.

DBE is a complimentary technique to small bowel capsule endoscopy. Often abnormalities found at capsule endoscopy are investigated by DBE since DBE can take biopsies or perform treatment which capsule endoscopy cannot do.

DBE and capsule endoscopy in combination are two of the most powerful, non-invasive and easy ways to investigate the small bowel. Both tests are associated with minimal discomfort and a very low complication rate.

What you need to know:

• Depending on the indication, DBE may offer patients an alternative to surgery.
• A DBE procedure can be performed under sedation or short acting general anaesthesia for maximum comfort.
• The procedure, which is performed through the mouth or the rectum depending on which part of the bowel needs to be examined, takes between 45 minutes to 2 hours.
• The duodenum and stomach must be empty during a DBE procedure so that the doctors view is not blocked. If the test is scheduled in the morning, you must not eat or drink anything after midnight the night before the test. If the test is scheduled in the afternoon, a liquid diet- such as juice, coffee, tea, or broth is recommended for breakfast. Do not eat or drink anything for at least 6 hours before the exam.
• You can continue taking any important medications that your doctor has prescribed. Simply take them with a small sip of water at least two hours before your appointment. This allows time for the tablets to dissolve completely. It’s important you you notify us if you are taking any blood thinners such as warfarin, clopidogrel or Xarelto.
• If you are diabetic you should contact the office for specific instructions.